Their Spanish speaking abilities have much improved, to the point where they were both leading Bible Studies in Spanish. The kids were doing well in their schools too. Amanda has been dealing with medical issues with her pancreas and had three surgeries while they were in Costa Rica. Back in March, her medical needs became so advanced that the International Mission Board, and the family, decided her best course of action was to come back to the USA to get medical treatment here. Their missionary journey was put on a type of "medical leave". She had another surgery at MUSC (in Charleston, SC) and has since been home in Greenville, SC recuperating. She still is not having the recovery they have been been praying for.
This week was the last week of their medical leave and they had to decide if they were going to ask for another medical extension from the IMB. At this point, they should have already been serving in Argentina!
Michael wrote a post on their blog this week, and I think his own words say it better than I ever could.
In 2007 we set out to be obedient to His call on our lives. In July 2010, we sit here in the marvelous mystery of His plan for our lives, to share the news that we will not be seeking medical clearance in order to return to the field. We will not be filling the position reserved for us in Cordoba, Argentina. Rather we will remain close to this area in South Carolina where her doctors are located, and we will continue to seek out answers to her ongoing pain. After many tear-filled nights and much prayer we now see this chapter in our ministry closing. It is a difficult place to be in many ways.
To read Michael's full article, click here.
I know the Hodges would appreciate your prayers for them, as I'm sure this has been a very difficult time for them. I can't imagine what it must feel like, to have sold their cars, their home, and packed everything else up, to move to another country to learn a language so they can go reach people for Christ. But, God has a plan in all of this. All that they have dealt with regarding Amanda's health, has been part of God's plan. They were obedient to the Lord, and when He said "Go!", they went.
They will now be serving with a church in Greenville. Buddy's parents used to live near this part of town, and there is a HIGH Hispanic population in that area. Their Spanish skills that they have learned will definitely be put to good use. Please pray for the Hodges as they once again transition into this new chapter of their lives. Pray that God will continue to use them, and that they will continue to be obedient to them. Most importantly, pray for Amanda's healing and recovery in regard to her health.
As always, you can continue to follow their story by reading their blog, here or you can click it on my sidebar.
1 comment:
Wow. Reminds me of the Beverly family at our church. I know that the Lord will continue to use the Hodge family, even though it will not be in the way they thought.
Post a Comment